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| Staff Writer |
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San Donato is being aimed at back-to-back victories in the Gr.2 Zabeel Mile at Meydan on Friday, with trainer Michael Costa confident of an improved showing following a recent prep run.
The 9YO, who claimed three victories for Roger Varian in 2018, landed this prize for Doug Watson last term before notching a creditable third in the Gr.1 Jebel Hatta and attempting the Gr.1 Dubai Turf.
Following a runner-up finish in Listed company pre-Christmas, Costa expressed optimism about his charge's progression, saying: "We're really happy with him. We ran him first up thinking he would be too short (on fitness), but we wanted to give his coat a wriggle on. He has come on nicely and will keep getting better with the increase in distance."
A nine-strong field includes Charlie Appleby's duo Ottoman Fleet and Noble Dynasty, while Lucie Botti fields Royal Dubai, who finished third in the Gr.2 Al Rashidiya.
Botti told the Dubai Racing Club: "Royal Dubai looks fantastic after his impressive Group Two performance. It's a short break between two very competitive races, but he's honest and ready for the challenge."
The line-up is completed by Simon and Ed Crisford's Poker Face, Alice Haynes' Cairo and Karl Burke's Holloway Boy.
The Crisfords also run Strobe in the Gr.3 Dubawi Stakes, where sprint sensation Tuz headlines following his Golden Shaheen triumph.
In the UAE 2000 Guineas Trial, Saeed bin Suroor introduces newcomer Arabian Story, alongside Uruguayan challengers Don Vacarro and Nam Phrik from Julio Olascoaga's yard.
Dylan Cunha's Silver Sword begins his Dubai venture in the Zabeel Turf, with Cunha noting: "He's a decent horse who lost his way last year, but I feel we got him back before he left for Dubai and he has been thriving out there – I've never seen him better."
Appleby's Hallasan, who defeated Aidan O'Brien's subsequent Group One victor Camille Pissarro at Doncaster's St Leger festival, features prominently in the Jumeirah Stakes.